Description: Health statistics are a set of data related to the health of a population, covering aspects such as morbidity, mortality, and the utilization of health services. These statistics are fundamental for understanding the health status of a community, identifying trends and patterns in diseases, and evaluating the effectiveness of health interventions. Through the collection and analysis of data, key indicators can be obtained that reflect the quality of life and well-being of the population. Health statistics enable policymakers, researchers, and health professionals to make informed, evidence-based decisions. Additionally, they are essential for planning and managing resources in the health sector, as well as for epidemiological research and the evaluation of public health programs. In summary, health statistics are a crucial tool for monitoring and improving public health, providing a solid foundation for decision-making and the implementation of effective policies.
History: Health statistics have their roots in antiquity, but their formal development began in the 18th century with the collection of demographic and mortality data. In 1662, English statistician John Graunt published ‘Natural and Political Observations Made upon the Bills of Mortality’, which is considered one of the first works in the field of health statistics. Throughout the 19th century, with the advancement of epidemiology, statistics began to be used to track disease outbreaks. The establishment of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948 marked a milestone in the collection and analysis of health statistics globally, promoting the standardization of methods and the importance of data in public health.
Uses: Health statistics are used in various areas, including health service planning, epidemiological research, health policy evaluation, and identifying health needs in the population. They are fundamental for developing disease prevention and control programs, as well as for resource allocation in the health sector. Additionally, they enable governments and international organizations to monitor progress toward public health goals, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Examples: An example of health statistics is the use of data on infant mortality rates to assess the quality of health services in a country. Another case is the analysis of the prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, to design specific intervention programs. Health surveys, such as the National Health and Nutrition Survey (ENSANUT) in Mexico, are concrete examples of how health statistics are collected and used to inform public policies.
